Dog Training and Behavior Modification: Collars, Harnesses, and Stopping Barking

Quick Q&A

Question: What is the most effective and humane method to stop a dog from barking excessively? Answer: The most effective approach combines identifying the underlying cause (e.g., anxiety, boredom, territoriality) with positive reinforcement training to reward quiet behavior. Environmental management, such as increasing physical exercise and mental enrichment, is also critical. Aversive tools like shock collars are not recommended by veterinary behaviorists due to the risk of increasing fear and anxiety.

Question: Are no-pull harnesses or head collars better for training a dog that pulls on the leash? Answer: Both tools can be effective, but a front-clip no-pull harness is generally preferred by veterinary professionals as it provides better control without putting pressure on the dog's neck or causing discomfort. Head collars (e.g., Gentle Leader) are also effective but require careful acclimation and may be less tolerated by some dogs. The best choice depends on the individual dog's anatomy and temperament.

Introduction

Effective dog training and behavior modification are cornerstones of responsible pet ownership and preventive veterinary medicine. Addressing common issues such as leash pulling, reactivity, and excessive barking requires a nuanced understanding of canine ethology, learning theory, and the appropriate use of equipment. This comprehensive guide, written from a veterinary medical perspective, provides evidence-based insights into selecting the best dog training collars and best dog harnesses, offers dog training tips grounded in scientific principles, and outlines humane, effective strategies for how to stop dog barking.

The goal of this article is to empower veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and dedicated pet owners with the knowledge to make informed decisions that prioritize the physical and psychological well-being of the dog. We will critically evaluate the spectrum of training tools available, from flat collars to head halters and electronic devices, and contrast them with harness designs that promote biomechanical safety. Furthermore, we will dissect the multifactorial etiology of problem barking and present a structured, positive reinforcement-based approach to its modification.

Section 1: Understanding Canine Learning and Behavior

Before selecting any equipment or technique, it is essential to understand the fundamental principles of how dogs learn. Behavior modification relies on two primary paradigms: operant conditioning and classical conditioning.

1.1 Operant Conditioning and Reinforcement

Operant conditioning, as described by B.F. Skinner, involves learning through the consequences of behavior. The four quadrants of operant conditioning are:

• Positive Reinforcement (R+): Adding a pleasant stimulus to increase a behavior (e.g., giving a treat when the dog sits).
• Negative Reinforcement (R-): Removing an aversive stimulus to increase a behavior (e.g., releasing pressure on a choke chain when the dog stops pulling).
• Positive Punishment (P+): Adding an aversive stimulus to decrease a behavior (e.g., shocking a dog for barking).
• Negative Punishment (P-): Removing a pleasant stimulus to decrease a behavior (e.g., ignoring a dog that jumps up).

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) strongly advocate for the use of positive reinforcement-based training methods. Aversive techniques (R- and P+) are associated with increased stress, fear, and aggression in dogs, and their use is discouraged by leading veterinary organizations. A 2020 study found that dogs trained using aversive methods exhibited more stress-related behaviors than those trained with reward-based methods.

1.2 Classical Conditioning and Emotional Responses

Classical conditioning, famously demonstrated by Pavlov, involves learning through association. A neutral stimulus (e.g., a clicker) is paired with a significant stimulus (e.g., food) until the neutral stimulus alone elicits a conditioned response (e.g., salivation). This principle is the foundation of counter-conditioning, a core technique used to modify emotional responses to triggers such as other dogs or the doorbell. For example, a dog that barks fearfully at strangers can be counter-conditioned by pairing the sight of a stranger with a high-value treat, gradually changing the dog's emotional response from fear to anticipation.

Section 2: Collars: A Critical Evaluation

Collars are one of the most common pieces of equipment used for identification and restraint. However, not all collars are created equal, and some pose significant risks to canine health.

2.1 Flat Buckle Collars

The standard flat collar is suitable for well-mannered dogs that do not pull on the leash. They are acceptable for holding identification tags. However, for dogs that pull, lunge, or have respiratory or ophthalmic conditions, flat collars can be dangerous. Pressure on the trachea can exacerbate tracheal collapse, a common condition in toy breeds, and can increase intraocular pressure, which is contraindicated in dogs with glaucoma or lens luxation.

2.2 Prong (Pinch) Collars

Prong collars are designed to apply pressure to the neck when the dog pulls, with the intention of causing discomfort to deter pulling. Despite their continued use by some trainers, prong collars are widely condemned by veterinary medical associations. The AVMA and AAHA have issued statements against the use of prong collars, citing risks of tracheal injury, esophageal damage, cervical spine injury, and nerve damage. Furthermore, the mechanism of action relies on positive punishment, which can increase fear and aggression. There is no evidence that prong collars are more effective than humane alternatives.

2.3 Electronic (Shock) Collars

Electronic collars deliver an electric shock to the dog's neck, either manually by the owner or automatically in response to barking (bark collars). The use of e-collars is banned or restricted in several countries, including Germany, Austria, and parts of Australia. The European Society of Veterinary Clinical Ethology (ESVCE) and the FVE have issued strong position statements against their use. Research consistently demonstrates that e-collars cause pain, fear, and stress. A landmark study by Schilder and van der Borg (2004) showed elevated cortisol levels and behavioral signs of stress in dogs trained with e-collars. Furthermore, e-collars can inadvertently punish desirable behaviors and create negative associations with the environment, leading to generalized anxiety. For these reasons, e-collars are not recommended for any training or behavior modification purpose.

2.4 Head Collars (Halters)

Head collars, such as the Gentle Leader or Halti, function similarly to a horse's halter. They fit around the dog's muzzle and behind the ears, providing control by directing the dog's head. When the dog pulls, the head is turned gently toward the owner, disrupting forward momentum. Head collars are a humane alternative to aversive collars, but they require a gradual acclimation process. Some dogs find them aversive initially, and improper use can cause neck strain. They are contraindicated in brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs) due to potential respiratory compromise.

Section 3: Harnesses: Biomechanics and Selection

Harnesses distribute pressure across the dog's chest and shoulders, avoiding the neck entirely. They are generally considered safer and more humane than collars for dogs that pull. However, harness design varies significantly.

3.1 Back-Clip Harnesses

The most common type of harness, with the leash attachment on the dog's back. These are suitable for dogs that do not pull. However, for pullers, a back-clip harness can actually encourage pulling by allowing the dog to lean into the pressure, similar to a sled dog. They provide minimal steering control.

3.2 Front-Clip (No-Pull) Harnesses

These harnesses have the leash attachment on the dog's chest, typically at the sternum. When the dog pulls, the harness turns the dog's body sideways, redirecting their momentum. This design provides excellent control and discourages pulling without causing pain. Front-clip harnesses are widely recommended by veterinary behaviorists and trainers for leash reactivity and pulling. They are considered one of the best dog harnesses for training. Examples include the Freedom No-Pull Harness and the PetSafe Easy Walk.

3.3 Dual-Clip Harnesses

These harnesses feature attachment points on both the back and the chest. They offer versatility, allowing the owner to switch between a back clip for calm walks and a front clip for training or when encountering triggers. This is often the most practical choice for owners working on behavior modification.

3.4 Harnesses for Specific Medical Conditions

Harnesses are particularly important for dogs with medical conditions. For dogs with tracheal collapse, laryngeal paralysis, or brachycephalic airway syndrome, a harness is mandatory to prevent exacerbation of respiratory distress. For dogs with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a harness prevents pressure on the cervical spine. A well-fitted harness is also essential for senior dogs with mobility issues, as it allows the owner to provide gentle assistance without causing pain.

Section 4: How to Stop Dog Barking: A Veterinary Behavior Approach

Excessive barking is one of the most common behavioral complaints presented to veterinarians. It is essential to recognize that barking is a normal canine communication signal. The goal is not to eliminate barking entirely, but to reduce problem barking to acceptable levels. A thorough diagnostic workup is necessary to rule out medical causes.

4.1 Differential Diagnosis of Problem Barking

Before implementing a behavior modification plan, a veterinarian should perform a complete physical examination and, if indicated, baseline bloodwork and urinalysis. Medical conditions that can cause or exacerbate barking include:

• Pain: Arthritis, dental disease, otitis, or other sources of chronic pain can lead to increased vocalization.
• Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS): Similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans, CDS can cause disorientation, anxiety, and increased barking, especially at night.
• Sensory Decline: Hearing or vision loss can cause confusion and fear, leading to barking.
• Neurological Disorders: Seizures, particularly complex partial seizures, can manifest as unexplained vocalization.
• Endocrine Disorders: Hyperthyroidism (rare in dogs) or Cushing's disease can alter behavior.

Once medical causes are ruled out or addressed, the functional cause of the barking must be identified. Common categories include:

• Territorial/Alarm Barking: Barking in response to people or animals approaching the property.
• Attention-Seeking Barking: Barking to gain the owner's attention, food, or play.
• Greeting Barking: Barking excitedly when the owner arrives home or when visitors enter.
• Compulsive Barking: Repetitive, stereotypic barking often associated with anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• Separation Anxiety Barking: Barking that occurs exclusively when the dog is left alone, often accompanied by destructive behavior and elimination.
• Fear/Noise Phobia Barking: Barking in response to loud noises (thunder, fireworks) or specific triggers.

4.2 Management and Environmental Modification

The first step in any behavior modification plan is to manage the environment to prevent rehearsal of the unwanted behavior.

• Increase Exercise and Enrichment: A tired dog is a quieter dog. Ensure the dog receives adequate physical exercise (appropriate for breed, age, and health) and mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, food-dispensing toys, and nose work activities can reduce boredom-related barking.
• Block Visual Stimuli: For territorial barkers, block access to windows or use opaque window film to reduce visual triggers.
• Mask Auditory Stimuli: Use white noise machines, calming music (e.g., "Through a Dog's Ear"), or a fan to mask outside noises that trigger barking.
• Create a Safe Space: Provide a comfortable, quiet retreat, such as a crate covered with a blanket, where the dog can go to feel secure.

4.3 Positive Reinforcement Training Protocol

The core of humane barking modification is to teach the dog an incompatible behavior. The "Quiet" cue is a classic example.

1. Identify the Trigger: Determine what causes the dog to bark (e.g., the doorbell).
2. Set Up for Success: Have high-value treats ready. Ask a helper to ring the doorbell from a distance where the dog notices but does not yet bark.
3. Mark and Reward: The moment the dog hears the doorbell but remains quiet, immediately mark the behavior (say "Yes" or use a clicker) and give a treat.
4. Introduce the Cue: After several successful repetitions, say "Quiet" just as the dog is about to stop barking. Gradually, the dog will associate the word with the action.
5. Increase Difficulty: Slowly decrease the distance to the trigger or increase the intensity (e.g., a louder knock) as the dog succeeds.
6. Generalize: Practice in different locations with different people.

For separation anxiety, this approach is insufficient. Desensitization and counter-conditioning to departure cues are required, often under the guidance of a veterinary behaviorist. In severe cases, pharmacotherapy (e.g., fluoxetine, clomipramine) may be indicated in conjunction with behavior modification.

4.4 Tools and Devices to Avoid for Barking

• Bark Collars (Shock, Spray, Ultrasonic): These are aversive devices that punish the dog for barking. They do not address the underlying cause and can increase anxiety. A dog with separation anxiety may be shocked for barking, which only heightens its distress. Spray collars (citronella) are less aversive but still rely on punishment and are not recommended as a first-line treatment.
• Debarking Surgery (Ventriculocordectomy): This surgical procedure involves removing part of the vocal folds to reduce the volume of the bark. It is considered a last resort and is ethically controversial. It does not address the underlying behavioral motivation and can lead to complications such as aspiration pneumonia and chronic cough. The AVMA discourages the procedure for convenience alone.

Section 5: Integrating Tools and Training: A Practical Protocol

The following table summarizes a recommended approach to selecting equipment and implementing training for common behavioral issues.

| Issue | Recommended Equipment | Training Approach | Contraindicated Equipment | | :-, | :-, | :-, | :-, | | Leash Pulling | Front-clip or dual-clip harness | Positive reinforcement for loose-leash walking; stop-and-go technique | Prong collar, choke chain, back-clip harness (for strong pullers) | | Leash Reactivity | Front-clip harness or head collar | Desensitization and counter-conditioning (DS/CC) at a distance; "Look at That" game | Shock collar, prong collar | | Excessive Barking | Management tools (white noise, window film) | Identify cause; "Quiet" cue; DS/CC for triggers; enrichment | Shock bark collar, spray bark collar, debarking surgery | | Separation Anxiety | Comfortable crate or safe space | Systematic desensitization to departure cues; counter-conditioning; consider pharmacotherapy | E-collar, crate confinement without training | | General Training | Flat collar or back-clip harness | Positive reinforcement (R+) for all basic cues | Aversive tools of any kind |

Section 6: The Role of the Veterinary Professional

Veterinarians and veterinary technicians are on the front lines of behavioral health. It is crucial to:

1. Screen for Behavioral Issues: Ask about barking, pulling, and other concerns during every wellness visit.
2. Provide Anticipatory Guidance: Advise new puppy owners on appropriate equipment and training methods from the start.
3. Refer When Necessary: Complex cases, especially those involving aggression or severe anxiety, should be referred to a board-certified veterinary behaviorist (DACVB or ECVBM-CA).
4. Advocate for Humane Tools: Clearly communicate the risks of aversive equipment and the benefits of positive reinforcement.

Conclusion

Dog training and behavior modification are most successful when grounded in a thorough understanding of canine learning, a commitment to humane methods, and the appropriate selection of equipment. The best dog training collars and best dog harnesses are those that prioritize the dog's physical and emotional safety. Aversive tools such as prong collars and shock collars have no place in modern, evidence-based veterinary practice. When addressing how to stop dog barking, a diagnostic approach that rules out medical causes and identifies the functional motivation is essential. By integrating positive reinforcement training with environmental management and, when necessary, professional guidance, we can help dogs and their owners achieve a harmonious relationship built on trust and understanding.

References

1. Ward JL, VanBerlo B, Huggard B, et al. Lung ultrasound interpretation using deep learning for the detection of B-lines in dogs. J Vet Intern Med. 2026. [1]
2. Dung HT, Ngan CNH, Hoa NT, et al. Study on the prevalence of soil contamination with Ancylostoma spp. eggs in public parks and playgrounds in Hue City, Vietnam. Rev Bras Parasitol Vet. 2026. [2]
3. Kia GSN, Samuel M, Ferguson EA, et al. Experiences of piloting integrated bite case management in Zaria Metropolis, Nigeria. Front Trop Dis. 2026. [3]
4. Oporta-López JJ, Troyo A. First Record of the Chewing Louse Trichodectes canis (Psocodea: Trichodectidae) on the Domestic Cat (Felis catus) in Central America. Neotrop Entomol. 2026. [4]
5. Pinard CJ, Lagree A, Appleby R, et al. CT-Based Radiomic Features Predict Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis in Dogs With Oral Malignancy: A Machine Learning Study Using Leave-One-Patient-Out Cross-Validation. Vet Comp Oncol. 2026. [5]
6. Murthy S, Marchello CS, Hagedoorn NN, et al. Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology Enhanced Prevalence and Incidence Criteria (STROBE EPIC): An Extension of the STROBE Statement. Ann Intern Med. 2026. [6]
7. Feldner B, Chapman M, Daley K, et al. Creating a culture of well-being: How a committee transformed a hospital. Nurs Manage. 2026. [7]
8. Watanabe H, Kobayashi T, Okugawa A, et al. Using sniffer dogs to enhance bedbug detection and environmental management in a university hospital. Infect Prev Pract. 2026. [8]
9. Day JL, Tolls LE, Thurman W. Service animals in clinical education: A call to action for nursing student inclusion. Nurse Educ Today. 2026. [9]
10. Wang Z, Jia X, Mao R, et al. Engineering Function-Reversal Sacrificial Sites for Selective Volatile Aromatic Hydrocarbons Detection in Complex Environments. Adv Mater. 2026. [10]
11. Polacchini G, Stefanon B, Mongillo P, et al. A comparative analysis of gut microbiome in dogs using short- and long-reads of 16S rRNA sequences reveals workflow-dependent biases. Vet Res Commun. 2026. [11]
12. Husin NA, Loong SK, Lee HY, et al. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in a Rhipicephalus linnaei tick cell culture: detection, antibiotic resistance and multi-locus sequence typing. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek. 2026. [12]
13. Büyük F, Erkılıç EE, Ersoy Y, et al. Ehrlichia canis Seropositivity in a Hospital-Based Dog Population in Kars (Türkiye): IFAT-ELISA Comparison and Associated Demographic, Clinical, and Hematological Findings. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 2026. [13]
14. Ferreira B, Ferrolho J, Faria C, et al. Beyond the clinical eye: mapping intestinal parasitic infections and its risk factors among dogs and cats across Portugal. Front Vet Sci. 2026. [14]
15. McInnis M, Liu CC, Arbona V, et al. External Validation of a Custom-Trained Artificial Intelligence Model for Canine Ear Canal Disease and Comparison With Veterinary Professionals. Vet Dermatol. 2026. [15]
16. de Menezes MP, Pirolo M, Pereira N, et al. Intra-house circulation and persistence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in Brazil: Evidence of transmission between a dog and its family. Vet Microbiol. 2026. [16]
17. Joachim SC, Hirth C, Weber S, et al. [Experiences of glaucoma patients : Evaluation of the survey conducted by the Federal Association Glaucoma Self-help and the DOG Glaucoma Section]. Ophthalmologie. 2026. [17]
18. Alamdary A, Ajorloo M, Gholami A. Global Perspectives on Rabies Prevention and Control: A Decade of World Rabies Day Themes and Progress toward Elimination (2016-2025). Iran Biomed J. 2026. [18]
19. Finotello R, Teoh ST, Nili H, et al. Application of NMR-based metabolomics and machine learning for non-invasive disease screening in dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2026. [19]
20. Capitain S, Marshall-Pescini S, Wirobski G, et al. Deference or sociability? Insights from dogs' and wolves' human-directed behavior in a food-conflict task. Front Psychol. 2026. [20]
21. Mengesha K, Tarekgne EK. Community knowledge, attitude and practice on rabies and retrospective study of human and animal rabies exposures in selected districts of the Southern Zone of Tigray, northern Ethiopia. Rural Remote Health. 2026. [21]
22. Da Fonseca AD, Hall NJ, Young JR, et al. Evaluating Dog Preference Between Artificial and Natural Turf Grasses. Animals (Basel). 2026. [22]
23. Jeong M, Woo HM, Kim K, et al. Fracture Risk Evaluation of Trochlear Groove Depth in Toy and Small-Breed Dogs Under Gait-Based Loading: A Finite Element and Fatigue Analysis Study. Animals (Basel). 2026. [23]
24. Jin DJ, Jiang SC, Li JX, et al. Integrative MRI and Genomics Analyses Prioritize PACSIN1 as a Candidate Gene for Cerebellar Ataxia in Border Collies. Animals (Basel). 2026. [24]
25. Lewicki M, Górczyńska-Kosiorz SB, Gach J, et al. Prevalence of rs850683722 Variant and Its Influence on the Course of Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease in 105 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dogs in the Polish Population. Animals (Basel). 2026. [25]
26. Muršec A, Pavlović M, Žel J, et al. Examining the use and weight transfer of four custom-made partial hindlimb exoprostheses for a dog. Vet Rec Open. 2026. [26]
27. Njoga UJ, Njoga EO, Oguttu JW. Maternal slaughter and foetal wastage in Nigerian municipal abattoirs: Prevalence, drivers, economic losses and One Health implications. One Health. 2026. [27]
28. Obaid MK, Yuchun C, Shehla S, et al. Rickettsia massiliae and its public health significance across Palearctic and Oriental regions: a scoping review. Infect Dis Poverty. 2026. [28]
29. Obi CF, Ezeokonkwo RC. Human-mediated determinants of trypanocide use in dogs in Southeastern Nigeria: a cross-sectional survey with implications for resistance and One Health. BMC Vet Res. 2026. [29]
30. Gómez-Vidal AR, Vélez Santamaría H, Correa-Valencia NM, et al. Fidelity of the implementation of antirabies vaccination for dogs and cats in the Plurinational State of Bolivia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 2026. [30]
31. Duma M, Ramón-Barrera C, Sanmartín-Ordoñez G, et al. Idebenone reduces oxidative stress and differentially improves chromatin integrity in dog and cat epididymal spermatozoa after slow freezing and vitrification. Vet Res Commun. 2026. [31]
32. Quan J, Mo Z, Ruan X, et al. Urban surveillance of Babesia spp. in dogs and cats: molecular evidence from Changsha, China. Front Vet Sci. 2026. [32]
33. A J, K S, J F, et al. A Systematic Review of the Characterization of Behavior in Canine Behavioral Questionnaires. J Appl Anim Welf Sci. 2026. [33]
34. Linardon J, Firth J, Carvalho AF, et al. Multidisciplinary research priorities for artificial intelligence in mental health: a call to action. Lancet Psychiatry. 2026. [34]
35. Bounas A, Baxevani K, Dimitrakopoulos I, et al. Safeguarding biodiversity through predictive modelling of illegal wildlife poisoning hotspots. J Environ Manage. 2026. [35]
36. Miao X, Xu X, Han Y, et al. Emerged N193S mutation of PA-X protein disabled the immunity of mucosal dendritic cells for regulating virulence of clade 2.3.4.4b H5 subtype virus. Emerg Microbes Infect. 2026. [36]
37. Mvumbi P, Abate K, Fontbonne A, et al. Infectious risk in French breeding kennels: A practice-based typology centered on Brucella canis. Prev Vet Med. 2026. [37]
38. Maston K, Godward J, Brown L, et al. Pilot Study and Evaluation of a Sleep Health Education Program for Early High School. J Sch Health. 2026. [38]
39. Pearline SSRA, Subbiah G, Sanu A, et al. Multi-QuadEmoNet: cat and dog emotion classification model from animal vocalization using multi-stage LSTM-GRU paradigm. Front Vet Sci. 2026. [39]
40. Vatambeti R, Venkatesh D, Mamidisetti G, et al. Retraction Note: Prediction of DDoS attacks in agriculture 4.0 with the help of prairie dog optimization algorithm with IDSNet. Sci Rep. 2026. [40]
41. Valadares LPA, Carnib BL, Roque BDSF, et al. Melatonin Modulates Behavioral and Physiological Responses in a Concentration-dependent Manner in a Pilocarpine-induced Seizure-like Model Using Zebrafish Larvae. Neurotox Res. 2026. [41]
42. Al-Gamal AG, Gado WS, Abo El-Khair MA, et al. Dopant-dependent structure-property relationships in functionalized graphene and MWCNTs for sustainable energy applications. Sci Rep. 2026. [42]
43. Le Belle JE, Condro MC, Cepeda C, et al. Acute rapamycin treatment reveals distinct mechanisms of dysfunction in a maternal inflammation mouse model. Nat Commun. 2026. [43]
44. Davis SJ, Bassaj R, Hall L, et al. Scaling Mindfulness for Youth Well-Being: A District-Community Partnership Model. J Sch Health. 2026. [44]
45. Zhao Y, Huang S, Luo Y, et al. Extraction-driven structural modulation dictates the anti-diabetic potency of Notopterygium franchetii polysaccharides. Carbohydr Polym. 2026. [45]
46. Bian X, Tang N, Wang Y, et al. Carboxymethylation-induced changes in Sesbania Gum: From microstructure to shear, tribological, and extensional rheology. Carbohydr Polym. 2026. [46]
47. Zhang C, Bi Y, Wang Z, et al. Salbutamol sulfate and budesonide inhalation suspension for inhalation therapy: In vivo and in vitro evaluation. J Pharm Sci. 2026. [47]
48. Li Y, Wu L, Shi J, et al. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics reveal SUV39H1 as a master epigenetic driver of immunosuppressive niche and stemness in bladder cancer. Transl Oncol. 2026. [48]
49. Turovsky EA. From ROS to Cuproptosis: The molecular evolution of copper nanotherapeutics. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2026. [49]
50. Madva EN, Huffman JC, Burton-Murray H, et al. The WISH 2.0 Intervention for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc. 2026. [50]
51. Benzo RM, Tetrick MK, Singh R, et al. Cardiovascular Symptom Tracking Among Patients With Cancer in Cardio-Oncology Care: Qualitative Study Using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behavior (COM-B) Framework. JMIR Cancer. 2026. [51]
52. Tropea TR, Marcus SC, Bucher A, et al. Rapid Development and Testing of Behavioral Text Message Reminders for Antidepressant Adherence via Online Panels: Survey Study. J Med Internet Res. 2026. [52]
53. Ginsberg KH, Alsweiler J, Rogers J, et al. A Digital Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Education Intervention for Caregivers of Very Preterm Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Ment Health. 2026. [53]
54. Saberian L, Parmar N, Lau J, et al. A Survey of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviours of Canadian Family Physicians in Response to the Canadian Guideline on Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Non-cancer Pain. Can J Pain. 2026. [54]
55. Areeudomwong P, Juntiya V, Buttagat V. Effects of home-based Thai-boxing high-intensity interval training on physical fitness and body composition in sedentary young adults: A six-week randomized controlled trial. J Educ Health Promot. 2026. [55]
56. Xu W, Jiang L, He Q, et al. Interfacial coupling-modulated ultraviolet photoresponse in WS(2)/R6G hybrid structure with synapse-like characteristics. iScience. 2026. [56]
57. Chen S, Liu Z, Luo Y, et al. Effects of Virtual Reality Interventions on Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2026. [57]
58. Tamai Y, Uenaka M, Okamoto A, et al. Optical induction of auditory perception via cochlear stimulation in Mongolian gerbils without genetic modification. iScience. 2026. [58]
59. Gan L, Huang L, Wu S, et al. A qualitative study on emergency department nurses' experiences of coping with moral distress based on self-efficacy theory. Front Public Health. 2026. [59]
60. Aliyeva LI, Goyushlu SS. Influence of polymer additives on the rheological properties of bitumens. RSC Adv. 2026. [60]
61. Xu B, Ge ZQ, Shao YF, et al. From symptom onset to care-seeking: a process-oriented mixed-methods study of prehospital delay in cerebral infarction. Front Public Health. 2026. [61]
62. Huang H, Zhao Z, Xie T, et al. Latent classes of self-management behaviors and a network model of influencing factors in community-dwelling older patients with chronic diseases: a healthy aging perspective. Front Public Health. 2026. [62]
63. Baffoe EN, Bouchnita A. A multiscale model reveals how ERK/p38-regulated dormancy shapes tumor-immune dynamics and immunoediting outcomes. Front Immunol. 2026. [63]
64. Hao X, Wang Y, Zhang C, et al. Challenges in HIV prevention and treatment among men who have sex with men in China: structural exclusion, healthcare inequity, and testing avoidance. Front Public Health. 2026. [64]
65. Lidstone DE, Mostofsky SH. Speed-Dependent Visual-Motor Tracking Differences in Children With Autism Relate to Core Symptoms. Ann Child Neurol Soc. 2025. [65]
66. Picard N, Guével ML, Ouellet E. [Beyond Borderline Personality Disorder: An Analysis of Emotional Dysregulation Through a Complex Case]. Sante Ment Que. 2026. [66]
67. Côté A, Grégoire P, Courchesne V. [Beyond words: The complexity of differential diagnosis and treatment of severe ritualized behaviors in an autistic adolescent without functional language and with an intellectual disability: A case report]. Sante Ment Que. 2026. [67]
68. Ouellet-Courtois C, Villemaire-Krajden R. [The Treatment of Long-Standing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in an Intensive Specialized Program: A Case Study]. Sante Ment Que. 2026. [68]
69. Stip L, Giguère S, Deslongchamps JM, et al. [When virtual reality gives voice to silence: A case report of a patient with schizoaffective disorder and progressive bilateral deafness treated with Avatar therapy]. Sante Ment Que. 2026. [69]
70. Sastre LR, Stroud B, Breinholt R, et al. Evaluation of the 2021-2024 Implementation of the Fresh Start Enhanced Food Is Medicine Intervention Among Rural, Underinsured People With Type 2 Diabetes. Prev Chronic Dis. 2026. [70]
71. Jia Y, Qi K, Cai K, et al. Effects of Virtual Reality-Based Physical Exercise Interventions on Behavioral, Executive Function, and Motor Outcomes in Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Med Internet Res. 2026. [71]
72. Ruddock M, Yardley L, Bradbury K, et al. Engagement and Intersectionality in Digital Self-Management Interventions for Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res. 2026. [72]
73. Francis SN, Agarwal AA, Fanous AH, et al. Assessing Alopecia Areata Misinformation: Social Media Analysis. JMIR Dermatol. 2026. [73]
74. Park Y, Kim YJ, Choi B, et al. Long-Term Associations of a Mobile-Based Chronic Disease Management Program With Employee Health: Four-Year Retrospective Cohort Study. J Med Internet Res. 2026. [74]
75. Dowd AN, Moody K, Bagley E, et al. Do people who smoke and vape experience different cravings for each product? Insights from a dual cessation intervention. Nicotine Tob Res. 2026. [75]
76. Guerrero Serrano P, Sotoca P, García A, et al. DDR pathway alterations